Easter 2025 - Who is Your King? | Pastor Greg Ford Sermon | Easter at One Church Columbus

Who is Your King? | Pastor Greg Ford Sermon | Easter at One Church Columbus

ICEBREAKER:

How did you see God move this last week?

Summary:

In this study, we explore the significance of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus through the lens of Mark's Gospel. Pastor Greg Ford emphasizes how Mark presents Jesus as the true king amid the backdrop of Roman authority, particularly drawing parallels between the mock coronation of Jesus and the traditional coronation rites of Caesar. By examining these contrasts, we reflect on our understanding of kingship, the nature of power, and the core question: who is truly our king?

Key Points

  1. Mark's Audience: The Gospel of Mark was written primarily for a Roman audience, blending Jewish and Gentile perspectives.

  2. Hellenism and Core Values: Understanding the values of Hellenism—healthcare, education, entertainment, and competition—helps to contextualize Mark’s portrayal of Jesus.

  3. Mock Coronation: Mark depicts Jesus’ suffering as a ritual of mockery, contrasting His sacrifice with the imperial display of power associated with Caesar.

  4. Power of Love vs. Power of Fear: The crucifixion reveals how fear, often masked as power, contrasts sharply with the sacrificial love Jesus embodies.

  5. Invitation to Reflect: The study invites participants to ponder personal allegiances and consider whether they are driven by fear or love in their lives.

    • Scripture References

    • Mark 15:16-33: The mock coronation of Jesus.

    • Philippians 2:5-11: Paul’s exhortation to have the mindset of Christ.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, the question posed by Mark—and by Pastor Ford—is about the authority in our lives. Are we influenced by the fear of worldly powers, or do we choose to live under the kingship of Christ, guided by His love? This study encourages us to re-evaluate our priorities and the foundations of our faith, inviting us to accept a king who embodies love and sacrifice rather than fear.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does understanding Hellenism help inform your view of Jesus in the context of Mark's Gospel?

  2. In what ways do you personally grapple with the influence of fear versus love when considering your own leadership or decision-making?

  3. What are the symbolic events during Jesus' mock coronation compared to those of a Caesar?

  4. How does Paul’s teaching in Philippians 2 relate to the kingship of Jesus and our understanding of humility?

Guided Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, who exemplifies what true kingship looks like through His sacrificial love. Help us to recognize the areas in our lives where fear dictates our actions and lead us to embrace the power of love that comes from knowing You. As we study Your Word, may we grow in the knowledge of who You are and align our lives under Your Lordship. Amen.

One Church